The longer the warm weather sticks around the better. Hoosiers love the Great Outdoors, and there's an island-themed attraction in Valparaiso you'll want to enjoy every weekend the sun is out.
Featuring a little something for everyone, this is certainly one of the best family attractions in the state. Scroll on to learn all about it.
Zao Island is a northwest Indiana hot spot for anyone who loves adventure and excitement. There are nearly a dozen different fun attractions to enjoy here, and you've got to see them all.
This island-themed attraction makes every visit feel like a Caribbean vacation. In business for nearly 30 years, it remains a popular summer oasis as there is something fun for everyone in the family to do.
Even if you've got someone who just likes to walk around and take in the sights, this tropical paradise will offer some incredible views and photo opportunities.
One of the most popular attractions is mini golf. There are two courses consisting of a plethora of waterfalls, eight different scenes, and a 30-foot stone dragon that looks out over the highway nearby. The cost is $7 per person, though kids under the age of three may play for free.
Next, you'll want to race your loved ones in these Go Karts. The price is $6 each, and participants are allowed to drive around the 1,100-foot-long track in some of the best carts on the market.
Offering a wealth of different games to enjoy, the arcade includes about 65 machines, many of which dispense tickets for prizes. All ages will find a game to enjoy here.
Additional attractions include the batting cages, which are just a $1 each, a bounce house and slides that kids can enjoy all day for $7 each, and even a free alligator exhibit. Guests will also enjoy laser activities like tag (for $6) and a maze (for $3).
Seriously, they have like 45 gators from Florida that come up each summer. It's educational — and wicked awesome.
After all that, you're definitely going to be in the mood for something to eat. Stop over at Colada's Pizza for beer and wine, grinders, wings, cheese sticks, and some very delicious savory pies.
Zao Island is also a wonderful place to host an event. There is a gorgeous space for weddings but also accommodations for birthdays, anniversaries, and school gatherings.
From food to fun to relaxation, this island-themed attraction has it all. It is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Zao Island is located at 6384, 1050 Horse Prairie Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46385, and you can learn more on its website or Facebook page. If you've ever been to this island-themed attraction, we'd love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
Christmas is such a beautiful time; they aren't kidding when they say it's the most wonderful time of the year! Unfortunately, it also happens to be an outrageously chilly and even snowy time of year, and that can make it tough to decide what to do. Well, how about you get bundled up and take the family - or your special someone - to one (or all) of these awesome Christmas lights displays in Indiana? I was wondering about the best Christmas lights near me, and I figured I might as well write 'em down and let you guys know, too - at least one of these ought to be nearby, wherever you are!
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1. Winter Wonderland Holiday Lights - Elkhart
This world-famous holiday lights display in Indiana is back for another amazing season - this time, for an epic 18 days! Even if you've been to the Wellfield Gardens many times, you've never seen it like this. It's incredibly beautiful, and better still, it keeps the zoo open just a little later. Be sure to visit the official Wellfield Gardens website for all the dates, times, and events planned for these Christmas lights in Elkhart, Indiana.
So, did you know that there's actually an incredible Christmas town in Indiana that goes all-out every year - so much so that the whole town is named after the big guy in red? It's true - Santa Claus, Indiana is more than just some town with a funny name; it is THE Christmas capital of Indiana, and it's a can't-miss this year. Check out the Santa Claus Land of Lights, an enchanting 1.2-mile drive-through that's sure to charm the whole fam. Come out and enjoy! I'm pretty sure there's nothing like Christmas lights in Santa Claus, Indiana - it's a unique thing and it's all ours.
3. Blue Jacket’s Fantasy of Lights - Fort Wayne
With two amazing miles of lights and decor to drive thru, you'll find plenty to love at Blue Jacket's Fantasy of Lights, one of the best places for Christmas lights in Fort Wayne. In that two miles, you'll find more than 160 lit-up scenes, all of which are sure to delight. There's also a scavenger hunt to get the kids in on while you're here, so be sure to ask about Elsie the Elephant when you arrive. Check out the official Blue Jacket website for dates, times, and themes!
4. Lights of Joy - Shipshewana
Shipshewana is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful little towns in Indiana, and the folks who live here absolutely know how to do Christmas - and all the holidays - right! Shipshewana Lights of Joy is a wondrous experience perfect for a family night, date night, or even a solo holiday adventure. With almost two miles of amazing, synchronized lights set to music, this is one holiday lights display in Indiana that you can't pass up on. Christmas lights in Shipshewana, Indiana, are always special - but when paired with events and good company, they're irresistible! Visit the Lights of Joy website to learn more about dates, times, admission, and everything else you'll need to know before you go.
Psst, here's a secret: there are lots of winter wonderlands all over Indiana, and the beautiful town of Charlestown is adorable and worth a visit. The annual Christmas in Charlestown festivities draw in visitors from all over the state, with tons of things to do for everyone in the family. The opening night ceremony is a must-do, with food trucks, vendors, and, of course, the lighting ceremony. Other events include a mystery dinner party, wreath making classes, holiday parties, and more! You'll never see the Christmas lights in Charlestown, Indiana, the same way again - you'll associate them with fun from now on.
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6. City of Marion Walkway of Lights - Marion
The small city of Marion is a cute little place where the holidays really come to life. Every year, the city puts on its annual Walkway of Lights, an adventure of Christmas lights in Marion, Indiana, you won't soon forget. Like all the items on this list, the kids will love it, too. Did you know that Marion's lights are so impressive that the town has earned the nickname Christmas City, USA? Yep! It's true - come out and see why.
7. Christmas at the Zoo - Indianapolis
Christmas at the Zoo is an amazing, traditional display of Christmas lights in Indianapolis that can't be beaten - or compared to anything else. For more than 55 years, this tradition has lit up the hearts and souls of Hoosiers everywhere. If you've never experienced it, what better time to try than now? Come out and meet Santa Claus, explore the White River Gardens all lit up, come visit Mrs. Claus's kitchen (yum), and so much more. For dates, hours, and tickets, be sure to visit the official Indianapolis Zoo website for all the details.
8. Winterland Lights at the Park - Danville
Winterland Lights in the Park is a Danville tradition that everyone's welcome to get in on. If you've never heard of the Christmas lights in Danville, Indiana, it's time you have - and it's time you come visit! The whole town is a wonderland during the winter season, but during Winterland, it's especially magical. You'll love the warm, cozy holiday vibes, and the kids will love meeting with Santa. Visit the Danville Chamber's website for the most up-to-date hours, events, and more.
Last, but certainly nowhere near least, we'll take a look at another breathtaking display of Christmas lights in Indianapolis, this time downtown and oh-so-incredible. Truly, no photographs or videos will ever do this one justice; it's something you absolutely need to experience in person at least once. For more than 60 years, this awesome tradition has gone on rain, snow, or shine - and it shows no signs of slowing down. Check out the official website for Downtown Indianapolis to get all the details about this year's Christmas festival in Indy.
So there you have 'em: nine amazing Christmas lights displays in Indiana to bring the kids out for - or anyone else! Planning to head out and need to know what to bring along? Check out our handy-dandy winter packing list to get some ideas. I'm pretty glad I looked up the best Christmas lights near me - now we all know what we're doing this year!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
